The Gray-Nicolls Academy 5.5 Ounce Practice Cricket Ball is built with PVC exterior and has a soft foam center. It just mimics the real leather ball. But it is even better than the leather ball as it does not have much scuff marks when batted on than the leather balls which are used in different matches. It has a great handle like a real cricket ball. I just don't know why it does not come with the full red or full white versions. The seam could be improved a lot like a real cricket ball. But, other than that this is a great ball to play with in a game of cricket.